Bioenergy, mostly in the form of charcoal, was predominantly used by low-income households in rural areas in southern Africa. Increasing population growth and persistent poverty increased the pressure on the forest. Solutions to problems had to be found from an integrated perspective with the participation of different groups.

In the project, significant information deficits on consumption structures as well as obstacles and utilisation options for bioenergy in rural households were eliminated. Model-based analyses using an advanced modelling approach improved the view of the problem and identified strategies for sustainable development. In addition to externalities and price structures, qualitative socio-economic factors were also included in the analyses. In particular, a coupling of the energy model with a biomass model, based on aerial photography of the potentials and the consideration of forest management, was also planned.
Participation models were used to transfer the results into the decision-making processes. The network with three institutes from South Africa, one institute each from Mozambique and Zambia and two German institutes with specific expertise in the fields of energy modelling, bioenergy and socio-economics ensured a higher level of qualification for the participating doctoral students through joint thematic work and an intensive exchange within Southern Africa and between Germany and Southern Africa.